Originally posted on https://stallionplumbingsaltlakecity.com/diy-kitchen-plumbing-how-to-install-a-kitchen-sink/

Leaky sink ruining your brand new cabinets? Is the sound of a slow-leaking faucet driving you crazy?

Before you call a plumber, consider installing a new kitchen sink by yourself. Yes, that’s right, you can be just like Chip and Joanna Gaines for a day. And, if it makes you more motivated, you can also get a farmhouse sink to match your Fixer Upper fantasies.

Many people cringe at the idea of DIY housework. Others get overconfident and decide to take on too much. For example, knocking down walls or wiring a house.

It’s true that some home improvement jobs are better left for the pros. But, installing a kitchen sink isn’t always one of them. With a toolbox, patience, and perhaps some friendly wife and husband banter, you can have a new kitchen sink by sundown.

We all want our homes to be the envy of the neighborhood. We want our friends to come by and fawn over every last detail. And, when we can say “we did it ourselves” our pride in our home grows even more.

If you want to beam with pride after a DIY kitchen sink installation, then read on to find out how with our comprehensive guide.

THEY’VE GOT SKILLS!: HOW TO INSTALL A DROP-IN KITCHEN SINK

Before installing a kitchen sink, you’ll need to create a budget. Then, shop around for the perfect kitchen sink. If you’re on a tight budget or just enjoy saving money, wait for a sale and seek out discounts.

Explore the following steps for installing a kitchen sink to turn your kitchen into a fixer-upper success story.

GATHERING MATERIALS

Time to get to work! To start, you’ll need to gather a variety of materials and tools to complete the project.

Tools you’ll need include pliers, a putty knife, various types of wrenches, and a screwdriver. You’ll also need a tape measure and a utility knife. To drain the pipes, gather a small bucket and some towels.

To install the new sink, you’ll need plumber’s putty, a sink strainer, and silicone sealant.

While not mandatory, it’s also a good idea to replace the drainpipes, fittings, faucet, and other sink components.

Lastly, safety will need to be a priority. For safety reasons, purchase work gloves and safety glasses.

PREPARING FOR INSTALLATION AND REMOVAL

Before removing the old sink, it’s a good idea to take photos of the existing plumbing and of your old sink. These photos can serve as a reference for when you go shopping for a new sink and when you install it.

1. Measure the old sink. If your new sink doesn’t match the old one, you’ll need to make additional modifications. These may include altering the plumbing and/or the countertop opening.
2. Turn off the water supply lines and unplug the garbage disposal. You should also turn off the circuit to the garbage disposal for safety purposes.
3. Turn on the faucet to release any water and prepare to disconnect the water lines from the faucet. Place your bucket underneath the water lines while disconnecting them using a wrench.
4. Disconnect the P-trap and the drainpipe using pliers. Place your bucket underneath. Then, disconnect the dishwasher drain line if one is present. After that, disconnect the garbage disposal according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
5. Loosen the metal clips located under your sink bowl using the appropriate tool.
6. Slide your utility knife under the outer rim of the sink to remove the caulking bond. Once this is loosened, push the sink up from underneath and remove the old sink. Using your putty knife, remove any excess caulking and other substances to create a smooth surface.

INSTALLING THE NEW KITCHEN SINK

When installing your new kitchen sink, always reference the manufacturer’s instructions. Read the installation manual thoroughly to ensure you’re installing your specific model correctly. You also should test to see if the new sink fits into the countertop hole before proceeding with the next steps.

If your new sink doesn’t fit, then you will need to make additional modifications or purchase a different sink.

1. If you’re positive the new sink will fit, install the metal clips onto the new sink facing them inward toward the sink bowl. Then, install your new faucet and any other components. Next, install the drain strainer using plumber’s putty.
2. After that, attach the rubber gaskets and threaded flange to the underside of the sink drain. Repeat for any other drains without disposals. If you do have disposal, attach the necessary mounting bracket underneath the sink.
3. Prepare to drop-in the new sink by applying a small amount of silicone sealant to the edges of the basin. Then, lower the sink into the countertop hole. Swing the metal clips underneath the sink outward and tighten.
4. Attach the supply lines to the water lines tightly without stripping the threads. Then, install your garbage disposal according to the manufacturer’s instructions. After that, reconnect the dishwasher drain if one is present.
5. Reconnect the disposal pipes to the sink drain pipe. Then, attach the P-trap.
6. Apply a small amount of silicone sealant to the perimeter of the sink. Then turn on the water to see if everything is in working order. Check for leaks and repair leaks as needed.
7. If there are no leaks, then turn on the circuit to the garbage disposal. After that, plug in the garbage disposal.

WHEN TO CALL THE PROS FOR A KITCHEN SINK INSTALLATION

Feeling more like Chip and Joanna Gaines after reading this comprehensive guide? Before you start your kitchen sink installation, make sure you feel completely confident.

There are many times when it’s best to call a plumber to install your kitchen sink for you. For example, if your new sink’s plumbing doesn’t match the old. Changing the size of a kitchen sink is also a reason to call the pros.

Need some help from the pros? Live in Salt Lake City, Utah? Contact us today so we can install your kitchen sink for you. And, if you want to say you did it yourself, then we won’t tell.